Being beautiful: DIY bangs

When I was a kid, Mama sat me on a stool, covered my shoulders with a bath towel and dared me to move an inch. It was the dreaded bang trim.

I can't find my bangs these days because they have just vanished, but I do find guests in the salon who confess whacking at their own bangs between appointments.

Rarely does it ever go wrong, but just to be on the safe side I thought I would give some tips. First, never cut the bangs wet because when the hair dries the length draws up considerably. I think the worst hair mishap is the Mamie Eisenhower oh-too-short bangs.

Second, comb the bangs straight down, snip into the ends with the tips of the scissors for a softer more forgiving effect, and remove as little as possible. You can cut them more than once if they seem too long, but nobody wants to hear, "Oh, well, they will grow out."

Last, don't be overly ambitious. You can comb the bangs to one side until your stylist gets you in the chair. Nothing is more current than a long, side-swept bang deeply parted with a nod to the '60s. Also, ask your salon hostess if it offers complimentary in-between bang trims for those who tremble at the thought of DIY bangs. As for my mama's attempts at bangs all those years ago, I will just say, "Bless her heart."

Former Columbus resident David Creel owns Beautiful With David salon in Jackson and has 20 years experience in the beauty industry. Contact him at beautifulwithdavid@gmail.com.